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Five Nigerian internationals set to shine at 2025 FIFA Club World Cup
By Oyediji Oluwaseun Babatunde
As the inaugural FIFA Club World Cup kicks off today in the United States, excitement is palpable across the globe. The expanded tournament, which now features 32 of the world’s top clubs, promises high-octane football from June 15 to July 23, 2025.
Among the players to watch are five Nigerian internationals who are set to make their mark on the global stage, representing clubs from Europe, North Africa, and the Middle East.
1. Zaidu Sanusi (FC Porto, Portugal)
Super Eagles defender Zaidu Sanusi returns to action after an eight-month absence due to a cruciate ligament injury. A key figure for FC Porto, Sanusi is poised to showcase his resilience and defensive prowess in Group C. His side faces a tough group, with matches against Inter Miami (featuring Lionel Messi), Palmeiras of Brazil, and African giants Al Hilal of Egypt. This tournament could be the perfect stage for the 26-year-old to reignite his career.
2. Onuche Ogbelu (Espérance, Tunisia)
Midfield dynamo Onuche Ogbelu is ready to take on the world’s best in Group D. After joining Tunisian giants Espérance from Nasarawa United in September 2023, the 22-year-old quickly cemented his place in the team. A standout at the 2023 U-20 AFCON and FIFA U-20 World Cup, Ogbelu will face elite opposition in Chelsea, Flamengo, and Los Angeles FC. His vision and composure in midfield could be pivotal for Espérance’s chances.
3. Halilu Sarki (Al Ain, UAE)
Another graduate of Nigeria’s Flying Eagles, Halilu Sarki earned a move to Al Ain following his performances at the 2023 U-20 tournaments. Despite limited league appearances in the 2024/25 season, the right winger is part of the UAE club’s plans for the Club World Cup. Group G, featuring Manchester City, Juventus, and Wydad AC, offers Sarki the ideal platform to make a name for himself.
4. Hassan Sani (Al Ain, UAE)
Young goalkeeper Hassan Sani is one of Al Ain’s reserve options heading into the tournament. Promoted from the U-19 side, the promising shot-stopper will be hoping for an opportunity to impress, especially given the formidable attacking threats posed by their group opponents. The tournament experience alone is set to be invaluable for the budding talent.
5. Joshua Udoh (Al Ain, UAE)
Rounding out the Nigerian trio at Al Ain is Joshua Udoh, a central midfielder yet to make his first-team debut. Though untested at this level, Udoh’s inclusion in the squad signals the club’s faith in his potential. If given a chance, he’ll be looking to hold his own against some of the world’s best in Group G.
With five young and hungry Nigerians featuring across three clubs, the FIFA Club World Cup 2025 offers an exciting opportunity for these players to shine on football’s global stage. For fans of Nigerian football, all eyes will be on these talents as they represent their clubs—and their country—with pride.
